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Baker Mayfield and Buccaneers Agree to $165 Million Extension

PUBLISHED Sep 8, 2026, 10:56 PM ET

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Baker Mayfield and Buccaneers Agree to $165 Million Extension

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 27

Left 4%

Center 89%

Right 7%

Sources: 27

Quarterback Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have agreed to a three-year, $165 million contract extension, locking in the veteran signal-caller through the 2029 NFL season. The agreement was finalized on Tuesday, just days before the Buccaneers open their regular-season schedule against the Cincinnati Bengals. Mayfield, who joined Tampa Bay in 2023 following Tom Brady's retirement, expressed relief after resolving a contract standoff that saw stalled negotiations earlier in the summer. The new deal pays an average of $55 million annually, placing Mayfield among the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league. Buccaneers co-owner Joel Glazer praised Mayfield's leadership and competitive drive, noting the contract is the largest in franchise history. Since arriving in Florida, Mayfield has earned two Pro Bowl nods and secured consecutive NFC South division titles. Despite battling injuries during the final stretch of the 2025 season, the front office remains fully committed to building around their franchise leader.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On May 8, 2018 Baker Mayfield was selected first overall by Cleveland Browns
On July 15, 2022 Baker Mayfield was traded by Cleveland to Carolina Panthers
On December 6, 2022 Baker Mayfield was claimed off waivers by Los Angeles Rams
On March 16, 2023 Baker Mayfield signed a one-year contract with Tampa Bay
On March 12, 2024 Baker Mayfield signed a three-year, $100 million contract extension
On September 5, 2025 Baker Mayfield led Tampa Bay to a strong early season start
On January 11, 2026 Tampa Bay concluded the 2025 campaign missing the postseason
On July 24, 2026 Baker Mayfield voiced frustration over stalled initial contract extension talks
On September 8, 2026 Baker Mayfield and Tampa Bay agreed to extension terms
On September 13, 2026 Baker Mayfield is expected to start regular season opener

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Secures long-term stability for Tampa Bay's high-stakes offensive leadership.
Possible long-term US impact: Establishes baseline market valuations for mid-tier veteran franchise quarterbacks nationwide.
Most affected groups: Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans, sports media networks, and NFC South rivals.
Reader Priorities: Monitor official team announcements and authorized league insider injury reports.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 27
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 24

Explain Framing

Left: Highlighted financial equity benchmarks and player career market valuations. Center: Focused strictly on confirmed contract terms and team leadership stability. Right: Emphasized rugged competitiveness, individual resilience, and franchise commitment values.